Cape Town member Carolina Ramirez Herrera combines her work as a marketing and PR consultant with a parallel existence as a globe-trotting travel and lifestyle writer. Raised in Miami, she shares her insider’s guide to the vibrant South African city she now calls home
by Carolina Ramirez Herrera
Fri, Dec 27, 2019
As someone who grew up in a city as flat as Miami, I’m still in awe of waking up in Cape Town’s Clifton, with the beach and mountains just outside my window. Rubbing shoulders with both Camps Bay and Sea Point, Clifton is bit like Malibu’s edgier younger sister. Aside from the epic sunsets from my balcony, I love the fact that I can walk down to the beach in 20 minutes flat.
Cape Town is one of the most magical cities I’ve ever lived in. The people are laid-back, time moves slowly and outdoor life is always a top priority – from early-morning hikes to late-afternoon braiis [open-fire barbecues]. There’s a reason so many people flock to Cape Town for work or a holiday and then just… never leave.
Here’s how I spend my weekends in the Mother City.
Sunrise hike:Lion’s Head
Image courtesy of Alamy
‘Hiking is a big part of Capetonian culture and Lion’s Head [a small mountain in the centre of the city] is one of my favourite places to do it. You can hike to the summit in about 90 minutes – it peaks at 669m – and the 360° views from the top are well worth the trek.’
Breakfast bagel:Kleinsky’s Delicatessen 92 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060; kleinskys.co.za
Image courtesy of Kristin Hapiyogi‘When I need my bagel and schmear fix, this Sea Point deli nails it every time. Be sure to order the ice-cold nitro brew coffee, too.’
Food shopOranjezicht City Farm Market Sidmouth Avenue, Oranjezicht, Cape Town, 8001; ozcf.co.za ‘Every weekend I stock up on groceries and local goodies at this non-profit, community-style farmer’s market. But it’s not just about the produce; they also have everything from freshly shucked oysters to banh mi.’
Coffee stop: Molten Toffee 45b Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, +27 21 422 2885
Image courtesy of Vegan Guide Cape Town‘I’m a sucker for all things Wes Anderson and this downtown spot is very swoonworthy. They’ve perfected my regular order of iced coffee with a splash of almond milk and cinnamon.'
Lunchtime drive: Chef’s Warehouse at Beau Constantia 1043 Constantia Main Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806; beauconstantia.com
